Golden Boy Award: Bayern youngster Karl is one of the top favorites | OneFootball

FC Bayern is experiencing the breakthrough of an exceptional attacking talent this season. Lennart Karl has quickly played his way into the international spotlight with strong performances. Now the 17-year-old is also the focus of one of the most prestigious awards for young players.

The Bayern youngster currently tops the Golden Boy ranking. According to Score90, Karl is ranked number one in January 2026, ahead of Estevão from Chelsea FC, Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsí and Leipzig’s Yan Diomande. Argentine attacking talent Franco Mastantuono also follows behind the Munich native in the current ranking.

In sporting terms, Karl provides the right arguments for this ranking. In the Bundesliga, the 17-year-old has scored four goals and provided two assists so far, while in the Champions League he has scored three goals and provided one assist. His performances appear remarkably mature: Karl consistently looks for the finish, brings pace to his attacking play and takes responsibility in the final third.

Striking data and a fixed role in the Munich game

photo: IMAGO

Analyses by Global Soccer Network confirm this impression. The GSN Index already classifies Karl as international class, with the potential to develop into world class. His strong involvement in Bayern’s attacking play is particularly noteworthy – both as a pass receiver and as an active creator in phases of possession.

His style of play fits seamlessly into the Munich structure. The left-footer prefers to operate down the right-hand side, often moving inside and looking to finish goals. Despite his young age, Karl is already closely involved in combination play and takes on tasks that are usually reserved for much more experienced players.

Coach Vincent Kompany is also impressed by the youngster. The Belgian recently said of Karl: „He works very hard. What he delivers every day – in training, in matches, in meetings – is at the very highest level. He does so many things right.“ Statements that illustrate the high status of the attacking player in the current Bayern squad.